Sagrantino is an Italian grape variety that is thought to be native to Umbria. It is mostly cultivated in a small area around Montefalco in Perugia, which is also the location of its flagship appellation, the DOCG Montefalco Sagrantino.
This thick-skinned grape is known to produce full-bodied and tannic red wines. The grape can be used in varietals and blends—it is mostly blended with Sangiovese in Montefalco Rosso DOC. Sagrantino-based wines are rich in color, tannins, acidity, and sugar.
While they mature, their tannins mellow, and the flavor becomes more rounded. Although the exact origin of this ancient Italian grape has not been completely investigated, it is assumed that its name stems from the term sagra, meaning festival, and it allegedly refers to the tradition of serving this wine during church-related occasions.